How to Make Spanish Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos: Grilled Squid with Peppers

• 1 - What is Calamares a la Plancha?
• 2 - Ingredients for Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos
• 3 - Step-by-Step Guide to Making Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos
• 4 - Common Tips for Perfect Calamares a la Plancha
• 5 - Real-Life Story: A Family's Love for Grilled Squid
• 6 - Recommendations from Rubi Spanish Table for Authentic Ingredients

1. What is Calamares a la Plancha?

Calamares a la Plancha is a popular Spanish dish that features tender squid grilled with simple yet flavorful seasonings. The term “a la plancha” refers to cooking food on a flat, hot griddle, which gives the squid a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. In this version, Calamares is paired with Pimientos, Spanish peppers, adding a sweet and smoky flavor to the dish.

This dish is often served as a tapa, a small appetizer, but can also be enjoyed as a main course. It's a perfect representation of the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and bold flavors.

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2. Ingredients for Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos

To make Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos, you'll need the following ingredients. Most of these can be found in your local grocery store or specialty Spanish food shops:

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2.1 Fresh Squid

Fresh squid is key to this recipe. You can find it at seafood markets or grocery stores that carry fresh fish and seafood. Look for squid that is firm and smells fresh, without any off-putting odor. If fresh squid is unavailable, frozen squid can also work, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.

2.2 Spanish Pimientos (Peppers)

Pimientos, or Spanish peppers, are a type of sweet pepper commonly used in Spanish cuisine. You can find them fresh or jarred in many grocery stores or specialty markets. If fresh pimientos are unavailable, you can substitute with other mild peppers such as bell peppers or even roasted red peppers.

2.3 Olive Oil

Olive oil is the foundation of many Spanish dishes, including Calamares a la Plancha. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

2.4 Garlic and Lemon

Garlic adds an aromatic flavor, while lemon enhances the freshness of the squid. Both ingredients are used to season the squid before grilling, adding depth to the dish.

2.5 Salt and Pepper

Simple salt and freshly ground black pepper are all you need to season your squid before grilling. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos

Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to make this flavorful Spanish dish:

3.1 Prepare the Squid

Clean the squid by removing the head, ink sac, and cartilage, if it's not already pre-cleaned. Cut the body into rings or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Rinse the squid well under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

3.2 Marinate the Squid

In a bowl, combine olive oil, finely chopped garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the squid in the marinade and let it sit for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

3.3 Grill the Squid

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the squid on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the squid is golden brown and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the squid, as it can become rubbery.

3.4 Grill the Pimientos

While the squid is grilling, add the pimientos to the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred. Remove the stems and seeds, and slice the peppers into strips.

3.5 Serve and Enjoy

Once the squid and pimientos are cooked, arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of sea salt. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos!

4. Common Tips for Perfect Calamares a la Plancha

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Calamares a la Plancha turns out perfectly every time:

4.1 Don’t Overcook the Squid

Squid cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it while grilling. Overcooking can cause the squid to become rubbery and tough. Just a few minutes on each side is all it takes to achieve the perfect texture.

4.2 Use High-Quality Olive Oil

Since olive oil plays a key role in flavoring the squid, be sure to use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This will enhance the dish and give it a rich, authentic flavor.

4.3 Experiment with Other Seasonings

While garlic, lemon, and pepper are traditional, you can experiment with other seasonings such as paprika, thyme, or even a touch of saffron for a more complex flavor profile.

5. Real-Life Story: A Family's Love for Grilled Squid

Maria, a Spanish food enthusiast, learned how to make Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos from her grandmother, who used to prepare this dish for family gatherings. Maria recalls how her grandmother would grill the squid to perfection, always making sure it was tender and full of flavor. Over the years, Maria has perfected the recipe and now shares it with her own children, creating cherished memories and passing down a family tradition.

6. Recommendations from Rubi Spanish Table for Authentic Ingredients

At Rubi Spanish Table, we offer a curated selection of authentic Spanish ingredients to help you make the perfect Calamares a la Plancha con Pimientos. From premium olive oils to fresh pimientos, you’ll find everything you need to recreate this delicious Spanish dish in your own kitchen.

Visit Rubi Spanish Table for the finest ingredients and kitchen tools to elevate your cooking experience!